According to Sky Sports, as cited by Sempre Milan, Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing AC Milan star Franck Kessie. The Lilywhites may have placed an offer for the Ivorian midfielder but could face stiff competition from league rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers.
In this article, we will discuss what the potential addition of Kessie could mean to the Tottenham Hotspur setup this summer.
Eric Dier to be considered as a centre-back?
Dier has clearly struggled to integrate to Spurs’ holding midfield role under Mauricio Pochettino. The England international was awful with his passing and ball distribution last season. He was also easily beaten on several occasions, which draws argument as to whether or not is the former Sporting CP talent is better fitted elsewhere.
As far as Dier is concerned, he can play at centre-back. And should Kessie join the club this summer, the England international will likely be considered as a central defensive option in the new season. However, that will largely depend on the future of Toby Alderweireld, who reportedly agreed personal terms with AS Roma.
Dier starting as centre-back will allow Pochettino to retain his three-man backline in the event of Alderweireld’s potential departure from North London. Besides, he can have four quality defensive options at his disposal without having to spend big bucks in the transfer market on a central defender.
What’s next for Wanyama?
Wanyama has endured an injury-ravaged spell at Tottenham ever since he joined the club from Southampton. Last season, in particular, the Kenyan international featured in just over 500 minutes league football. His game-time was drastically minimised due to an unfortunate knee injury that kept him out for a combined total of almost 100 days.
Despite his struggles, the 28-year-old has reiterated that he is not leaving the club anytime soon. But, that could change should Spurs manage to bring in Kessie this summer. Another potential victim of Kessie’s arrival could be Mousa Sissoko.
The Frenchman was one of Spurs’ key players last season and enjoyed a brilliant spell under Pochettino when the likes of Dier, Harry Winks and Wanyama were out injured. However, it is unlikely he will play a prominent role in this new season.
Where does Kessie fit in at Spurs?
While Kessie might be responsible for so many changes in the Spurs camp after his arrival, where does he fit in the starting lineup?
The most likely option for Pochettino will be to deploy in the holding midfield role. Even though the Ivorian is an attack-minded midfielder by trade, his excellent passing coupled with his positional awareness, could make him an ideal deep-lying playmaker for the Lilywhites.
The 22-year-old can operate as the lone number six in case of a 4-1-3-2. Alternatively, he can also partner Ndombele in the double pivot of a generic 4-2-3-1. But, one thing is for sure – Kessie will be able to provide the much-needed depth in the Spurs midfield as the North London giants look to compete for the Premier League title next season.
